FBC Birmingham minister released after being held in conjunction with wife’s deathcomment (0)

August 22, 2013

While the investigation of Karen Shahan’s brutal murder continues, interim pastor Charles T. Carter is reminding members of First Baptist Church, Birmingham, that it’s OK to express anger and sadness and even harbor doubts about God and faith when faced with adversity.

“I imagine God has been bombarded by questions from Birmingham, Ala., and particularly from First Baptist Church,” Carter said during his Aug. 11 sermon. “It’s OK to ask questions.”

Karen Shahan, 52, was discovered dead in her home July 23. Authorities said she had been brutally murdered but provided no further details.

On Aug. 7, the Homewood Police Department detained Shahan’s husband Richard, 53, who is First, Birmingham’s children and families pastor and facilities director.

He was released from custody Aug. 9 without being charged. Police reports indicate no one has been ruled out as a suspect.

Richard Shahan also was put on administrative leave from the church “to give him time and space to focus on his family and healing at this time,” according to First, Birmingham’s Facebook page.